Mistress Eden
I was asked by Domina.. otherwise known as "the Frugal Domme".. to write a bit about Food Etiquette. Now I know that every Dom/me is different, and some prefer to pick everything that their sub eats, and maintain strict control over all food consumption. I for one do not have the desire or the time to waste doing those things, but to each his/her own. I can only write with authority was is my preference, and those I have plenty of. I adore chivalry, and dining out is a lovely way to practice it.
A good submissive is going to make it his/her life's work to study the habits, traits, and nuances of their Dom/me. In time they we know what it is that she prefers. For example, I always drink tea with extra lemon. All of my subs know this and make sure that I always have an ample supply of lemon at the table. That said, here are a few guidelines for D/s dining:
1. Mistress always chooses the table: in time a good submissive will learn what his Mistress's seating preferences are.
2. Mistress always is seated first, and will instruct the submissive where they are to sit.
I prefer my subs to order for me, after I tell them what I want, I also have had submissives who are in the food service industry to whom I have simply said.. "surprise me".. if they have spent any time with me that will know what my tastes are in food. Often I have been served unique off the menu creations that would make Julia Child drool.
3. Make sure that Mistress's drink is never more than half empty.
4. If Mistress is eating a messy food, or a food that involves labour, (such as peeling shrimp, shelling crab) one should provide that service so that Mistress energy is not expended on such menial tasks.
5. A Mistress never pays for a meal.
6. Upon completion of the meal, the submissive should assist the Mistress by
pulling out her chair, helping her with her coat, etc... and walking behind her to the
exit. Then bringing the car around to the front door if possible.
Within the comforts of home, food etiquette may be entirely different, subs may
be required to do all the food preparation, and clean up. Stand or kneel during meal
times. This is something that is highly individualized to each mistress. When I have
luncheons for some of the other Mistress's in town I do not allow submissives to eat at
all during that time. They are there to prepare, serve, and clean-up. At party's subs are
generally required to sit on the floor, and access the food tables only after the Dom/mes
have had first pick. It is good manners, and good protocol to always relinquish a favoured
treat if a Mistress should ask. Submissives can also serve as Drink holders, plate
holders, and even tables, and chairs in group situations. All at the Mistress's discretion
of course. The cardinal rule however, is to observe, and learn what it is that your
Mistress desires so that you may anticipate her needs, thus making your service of value
to her.
Much love,
Eden
© 2001 Mistress Eden
All Rights Reserved
Last update March 1, 2003
Copyright House of Corwyn, 2001-2002
All Rights Reserved